'KVK checks my business plan' and other misconceptions

Jeanine Hoekstra
The basis
Edited 23 August 2024
3 min
Starting

Registering your business is easier than many people think. Our advisers are faced with misconceptions on a daily basis. Such as: KVK checks your business plan before you can register, and view your certificates. Simply not true. These are the most common misconceptions starting entrepreneurs have about KVK.

1. When I register, KVK checks all my credentials

Many entrepreneurs think they have to bring a business plan, certificates, or permits to their registration appointment. Although we advise you to make a business plan, we do not check it. Nor do you have to show your diplomas or permits when you register. The government has given us the task to manage the Business Register. Other organisations check whether you have the correct certificates and permits.

What we do check:

Your identity: we check your ID, so we know you really are who you say you are.
Your company name: we check that there are no other companies registered in the Business Register with (nearly) the same name as yours. You are not allowed to use the same company name as someone else.
Your visiting address: is your visiting address not the same as the address where you live? Then we need a signed rental contract or a consent declaration from the owner of the premises.

Video: Registering with KVK: how it works

2. I receive my VAT number directly when I register

KVK does not give you your VAT-ID or VAT number. We do forward your registration in the Business Register to the Belastingdienst, the Netherlands Tax Administration. The Belastingdienst sends you your VAT-ID and your VAT number within 2 weeks after you have started your business. You use the VAT-ID for your website and invoices. You need the VAT number for your VAT return.

3. KVK is only of use to me at the start of my business

KVK is known mainly for its Business Register. Every entrepreneur registers with that register at KVK. But you can also turn to us for information and advice. No matter how many years you have been in business. You can call the KVK Advice Team with all your business questions.

Our website offers all kinds of useful information for entrepreneurs:

4. I can only register if I spend at least 1225 hours on my business

You can be an entrepreneur if you spend less than 1225 hours per year on your business. And need to register with KVK. The law says that you are an entrepreneur if you independently provide products or services to others with the intention of making a profit. The 1225 hours has to do with the hours criterion. If you spend more than 1225 hours per year on your business, you are entitled to tax benefits.

5. I have to be 18 or over to start a business

This is not true. You can start a business when you are younger than 18. In fact, the number of children and adolescents starting a business is growing. In 2022, more than 50,000 under-21 entrepreneurs were registered with KVK. So do not put off your business plans on account of your age. It does help if your parents or guardians support you, because you need their permission to start a business.

6. KVK owns the Business Register

It may seems so, but KVK only manages the register and keeps it up-to-date. The government has appointed KVK todo so. The Business Register contains details of all companies in the Netherlands. That way, you can find out who you are doing business with, and if a business has perhaps gone bankrupt. By registering in the Business Register, you prove you have a business.

7. I must file my general terms and conditions with KVK

You can, but you do not have to. You can file your general terms and conditions with KVK or with the district court. You pay a fee for filing. Clients or suppliers can request a copy of your terms and conditions from KVK. Whether filing your general terms and conditions is a good idea for you depends on your preferences and the type of business you have.

8. I can turn to KVK for examples of contracts and legal aid

KVK does not give personalised legal advice. Are you looking for legal aid or examples of contracts, such as a vof contract or general terms and conditions? Contact your sector organisation, a legal adviser, or a civil law notary.

Our website does offer information about laws and rules. The KVK Advice Team can also help you on your way.